Blackburn and Gomes part ways

Nuno Gomes has left Blackburn Rovers after the Championship club terminated his contract.

Nuno Gomes made 79 appearances for Portugal

The Portugal international, who turns 37 on July 5, had 12 months remaining on the lucrative two-year deal he signed last summer.

Blackburn said the former Benfica and Fiorentina forward was departing by mutual consent after manager Gary Bowyer could not guarantee him more opportunities.

Gomes, who helped Portugal reach the final of Euro 2004, only started one game since October 3 and all four of his Blackburn goals came during the reign of Steve Kean, who resigned last September.

Bowyer told the club's official website: "Nuno is a model professional, who has been a fantastic influence on the younger players at the club and has been a pleasure to work with.

"I fully understand that at this stage in his career he wants to play regular football, but unfortunately I can't give him those guarantees.

"I spoke to Nuno about the situation and we have agreed to terminate his contract so that he is free to source other options in order to prolong what has been a long and distinguished playing career. I thank him for his dedicated services and wish him all the best in the future."

Gomes added: "Playing for this historic club has been an absolute pleasure. Despite only being here for a year, I have enjoyed my time here immensely."

Gomes was understood to be one of the biggest earners at Ewood Park as Blackburn spent heavily in their bid to earn an immediate return to the Premier League following relegation in 2012.